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Detroit Lakes, MN
Detroit Lakes is a city and the county seat of Becker County, Minnesota, United States. The population was 9,869 at the 2020 census. Its unofficial population during summer months is much higher, estimated by citizens to peak at 13,000 midsummers, due to seasonal residents and tourists. You’ll find Detroit Lakes, Minnesota to be a friendly, storybook community with water, woods, fresh air and plenty of amazing things to do. Whether you’re looking to play, stay or build, we’re here to help.
Detroit Lakes was founded by Colonel George Johnston, who came to Minnesota in 1871 to select lands for the New England Colony. After extensive examinations, Johnston numbered sections which established Detroit Township. In 1873, Detroit Township boasted the first grain warehouse built west of Duluth on the Northern Pacific Railroad. The city of Detroit Lakes, originally called Detroit, began north of the railroad tracks and gradually extended south to Detroit Lake. The name Detroit came about when a French Catholic Priest camped on the shore of the lake with a view of the sun setting across the water. The water was low and revealed a sandbar, creating a narrow strait that glistened in the light of the setting sun. The priest exclaimed, “What a beautiful strait.” The word strait in French is detroit. Consequently, the city was named Detroit. As a result of continuous postal mix-ups between Detroit, Minnesota and the better-known Detroit, Michigan, a special election was held on September 7, 1926 to change the city’s name to Detroit Lakes.
We’re not saying Detroit Lakes has more events, festivals and parties than we do people. But it sure feels that way. Tune into live music in the Detroit Lakes area to get that festive feeling.
